Heat Recovery Ventilators are the ideal choice for cooler climates, as in southern Australia, where humidity is not an issue. Where home heating is essential, the heat recovery ventilator is the proper choice as these systems can recover up-to 90% of the heating from exhaust air. In addition to heat recovery and improved air quality, these systems provide necessary ventilation while controlling excess humidity. All units provide high-level filtration and for people who suffer from allergies or asthma there is the option of electronic filteration.

These systems can be installed in either new or exisiting homes and apartments and can also be incorporated with ducted refrigerated air-conditioning or heating systems. Designed to operate with minimum power requirements, typically 50 - 150 watts, these units can be installed in attics, cupboards, ceiling cavities and attached garages. These systems are fully ducted systems that bring fresh filtered air into bedrooms and living areas, and exhaust from high moisture areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.

The Zehnder ComfoAir series units are Passiv Haus certified, offer a geothermal option as well as a unique integrated kitchen rangehood solution.

How does it work?

[View Zender HRV animation]

Stale, moist air is extracted out of the wet rooms of a home. These include the kitchen, bathrooms, utility and en-suite rooms. This moist air is then ducted to a central unit located normally in the loft space in a house or in a utility room or cupboard in an apartment. This extracted air passes over a heat exchanger before being ducted to outside. Simultaneously, fresh air is drawn into the unit from outside via a filter, and is warmed by the high efficiency heat exchange cell. This tempered, fresh air is then delivered through supply vents into the living, dining and bedroom areas.

This constant supply of clean, tempered air into the property creates a healthy and ideal environment, maintaining stable humidity levels, free from condensation and mould. Sufferers of asthma, house dust mite populations and other respiratory problems should find this method of ventilation significantly beneficial.